Council to stand in for sick Banda
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.BLANTYRE (Reuter) - A presidential council has been appointed to run Malawi while President Hastings Banda, who is in his nineties, recovers from brain surgery in South Africa. The ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) said the council would be headed by Gwanda Chakuamba, who party leader a week ago.
Other members of the council are the Minister of State in the President's Office, John Tembo, and the Transport and Communications Minister, Robson Chirwa. The MCP was Malawi's only legal party until it lost a referendum in June. A multi-party election is planned for May.
A clinic spokesman in Johannesburg said Dr Banda, one of Africa's longest-ruling heads of state, will probably stay in hospital for at least another week. South Africa's Foreign Minister, Pik Botha, visited Dr Bandayesterday. Doctors operated on him on 3 October to drain excess brain fluid.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments